About

Welcome to Jacob’s Math Help Desk for classes at McGill!

I started running math lectures catered specifically to classes at McGill 10 years ago, while completing 3 degrees there, and have helped thousands of McGill students understand the material and succeed in their class.

I work exclusively with small groups to make sure every students have a chance to engage during the class and get the attention they need. I develop for each session extremely detailed and color-coded notes to explain and illustrate step by step the concepts and theory of the class, with representative, fully-solved problems and additional practice problems.

My philosophy of teaching:

My primary goal in teaching is to help students discover the material for themselves, not simply feed them meaningless algorithms for finding answers. Answers are important; however, devoid of meaning and understanding, they will ultimately undermine your success in any university class. I work hard to provide students with everything they will need to master the material and ace their class… and maybe even enjoy themselves a bit along the way! &nd don’t be surprised if some homemade cookies or brownies show up at the session, either!

My values:

Focus on students

Quality of teaching

Understanding of the material

If you have any questions or would like additional information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me – I’m here to help!

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Jacob's sessions were clear and well-organized. He takes the time to answer questions and explains really well. I understood the material way better thanks to his tutorials and got an A on my final � he also bakes amazing cookies so it's definitely worth going!

Romy Yang5/23/2017

I had not attended any tuitions in my life. I realised university life is totally different. The way Jacob taught me Calculus 2 in just one session and summed up key points boosting my grade and also my understanding of math from the root was just amazing. A person who works like a magician! I'd highly recommend him if your base concepts are weak in math.

Usaid Barlas4/06/2017

Jacobs sessions were great. He did an amazing job teaching concepts in a way that you didn't have to memorize a thing. Not only did this boost my mathematical confidence, but it enhanced my understanding.

Shakil Jiwa5/04/2017

It's the cat's meow to work with such bright & motivated students ...

Lindy Paws3/30/2017

I gained a new appreciation for cal 2, which I thought was never possible. Jacob definitely saved my grade this semester and I am very grateful.

Laura Douglas4/29/2017

What's great about these sessions is that Jacob emphasizes conceptual understanding over mindless memorization, which is particularly helpful for students continuing in math-based subjects. He is also very accessible and genuinely cares about his students :)

Marta Frl4/09/2017

Short Version: If Jacob were to begin as a lecturer for the math department, I would buy stock options on McGill rising in the world university rankings for mathematics.
I've never had a tutor before. My usual MO for math had always been to memorize the relevant algorithms for solving problems and apply them. After some experience with McGill's math classes, I learned the hard way that this does not work anymore. With my tail between my legs, I asked Jacob for help, and it was the best decision I could have made - aside from building a time machine to go back and join the Mastery sessions even earlier. Jacob is an extremely skilled teacher who will cultivate for you a rich understanding of the material and the concepts that they build on, one that you will not acquire from merely attending lectures and reading the textbook. If you're anything like me, you'll be surprised by the difference in how you'll approach problems and the richness with which you'll understand them. You may even gain a reinforced appreciation for math itself. So whether you want to understand the concepts covered in class at a fundamental level, you enjoy learning in a welcoming and encouraging environment, or your ass just needs saving, join Jacob's sessions.

Gabriel Lluch4/17/2017

Jacob is a great tutor! His notes simplify complicated topics, his passion and drive are evident in every lecture that he delivers!

Nicholas Tariro Toronga6/19/2017

Jacob's sessions were super helpful and worth it. I was struggling with my math classes but Jacob's complete explanations and clear notes really helped me feel more comfortable with the material. Additionally, Jacob is a great guy and was always open for questions. I would definitely recommend attending his sessions!

Amanda Scharf5/24/2017

As a first year at mcgill many things can be new and challenging. Math is no exception , but with Jacob's weekly sessions and reviews you get to understand better outside lectures and because of the setting you can ask as many questions and get more help compared to what you would normally get in class. It has been an amazing journey and math was made easier. Thank you Jacob for the wonderful work.

Ascarnancy Bako5/24/2017

I gained a new appreciation for cal 2, which I thought was never possible. Jacob definitely saved my grade this semester and I am very grateful.

Laura Douglas4/29/2017

Jacob's sessions were super helpful and worth it. I was struggling with my math classes but Jacob's complete explanations and clear notes really helped me feel more comfortable with the material. Additionally, Jacob is a great guy and was always open for questions. I would definitely recommend attending his sessions!